PR chief joins former NBC boss as cabler engineers turnaround

Gollust and Zucker have previously worked together at NBC, where she served as exec VP of corporate communications while Zucker ran the Peacock.

“In the 15 years that Allison and I have worked together, I’ve depended on her judgment, counsel and relationships,” said Zucker. “Allison is joining CNN at an exciting time, and she and the strong communications team she’s inheriting will play a critical role in shaping the organization and its story going forward.”

Gollust assumes the praiser post on March 1 and will be the chief spokesperson for the news brand, leading CNN’s publicity as Zucker continues to reshape the net into a competitive cable news force. Gollust will be responsible for all messaging strategy for CNN’s portfolio of networks and businesses, including HLN, CNN.com and domestic operations of CNN International and CNN en Espanol.

Hire ends Gollust’s relatively short stint working for New York Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, serving as his communications director since October. Previously, Gollust had logged a significant tenure at the Peacock, growing close to Zucker during her time working on “Today.” She eventually ankled NBC, as did Zucker, when the Comcast merger took effect.

Elsewhere on the cable news space, Fox News has tapped former presidential candidate Herman Cain as a contributor. Cain will provide analysis and commentary on both Fox News and Fox Business Network during daytime and primetime programming.

Cain sought the 2012 Republican presidential nomination, but dropped out of the race amidst allegations of sexual misconduct. Prior to his bid for the presidency, Cain serve as a conservative radio host, columnist and author.